SlimFast Plan Consultant and Registered Dietitian, Maryann Walsh, shares her advice about how hydration affects your brain and body.
Yup! It’s true, and there is research backing it. Among the multitude of health benefits that come from adequate hydration, it is super important for neurological health. So, drink up! How much you may ask? 8 glasses a day? Half your body weight in ounces? There are many reasonable recommendations out there. The Institute of Medicine provides a general recommendation of 2.7 liters of water per day for women (about 11 cups or 88 oz.) and 3.7 liters per day for men (about 16 cups or 128 oz.) from both beverages and foods, but most health professionals and researchers agree that the average healthy individual can let thirst be their guide for adequate hydration! Check out these additional blogs for more advice & tips on hydration 1.
Maryann Walsh, MFN, RD, LDN
Studies/ references in links:
- https://www.nationalacademies.org/news/2004/02/report-sets-dietary-intake-levels-for-water-salt-and-potassium-to-maintain-health-and-reduce-chronic-disease-risk
- Armstrong LE, Ganio MS, Casa DJ, et al. Mild dehydration affects mood in healthy young women. J Nutr. 2012;142(2):382–388. doi:10.3945/jn.111.142000
- Ganio MS, Armstrong LE, Casa DJ, et al. Mild dehydration impairs cognitive performance and mood of men. Br J Nutr. 2011;106(10):1535–1543. doi:10.1017/S0007114511002005
- Riebl SK, Davy BM. The Hydration Equation: Update on Water Balance and Cognitive Performance. ACSMs Health Fit J. 2013;17(6):21–28. doi:10.1249/FIT.0b013e3182a9570f
ABOUT MARYANN
A consultant of the SlimFast Plan, Maryann is a Registered Dietitian with Bachelor of Science degrees in Biological Sciences and Dietetics and a Master of Food and Nutrition. She has extensive experience working with clients of all ages and from all walks of life, helping them to achieve their wellness and weight-loss goals. Learn more about Maryann.